Battery module

Abstract

The invention relates to a battery module. The first support portion and the second support portion sandwich one of the plurality of unit cells in the first direction. The first support portion includes a plurality of first protrusions. The plurality of first protrusions protrude in a first direction from the first main surface portion, and extend in a band shape in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The second supporting part comprises a plurality of second convex parts. The plurality of second protruding portions protrude in the first direction from the second main surface portion. The plurality of second protrusions extend in a band shape so as not to overlap the plurality of first protrusions when viewed from the first direction, or extend in a band shape in a third direction different from the second direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This technology relates to battery modules. Background Art

[0002] As a prior art document that discloses the structure of a battery module, there is Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-074271. The battery module described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-074271 is equipped with a single cell and a supporting member. The supporting member includes a side wall portion and a partition wall portion. The single cell is clamped by the side wall portion and the partition wall portion in the stacking direction of the single cell. A protrusion is provided on the side wall portion. A rib is provided on the partition wall portion. A portion of the protrusion of the side wall portion and a portion of the rib of the partition wall portion extend in the same direction orthogonal to the stacking direction of the single cell. A portion of the protrusion of the side wall portion and a portion of the rib of the partition wall portion are arranged in a manner that overlaps in the stacking direction of the single cell. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The battery module described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-074271 has a cross-section along the stacking direction of the cells, where a pressure force is applied from both sides of the cells by the support portion. This pressure compresses the cells, narrowing the electrolyte flow path within them, potentially hindering electrolyte flow. Therefore, it is necessary to facilitate electrolyte flow within the cells and improve battery module reliability.

[0004] The present technology has been developed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a battery module in which an electrolyte solution easily flows inside a single cell and which has high reliability.

[0005] This technology provides the following battery modules. [1]

[0007] A battery module, comprising:

[0008] a plurality of battery cells, the battery cells being arranged in a first direction and each having a prismatic shape; and

[0009] a first supporting portion and a second supporting portion, wherein the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion clamp one of the plurality of battery cells in the first direction;

[0010] The battery cell includes a first side surface portion and a second side surface portion that are opposite to each other in the first direction.

[0011] The first supporting portion includes:

[0012] a first main surface portion located on the first side surface portion side of the battery cell in the first direction; and

[0013] a plurality of first protrusions, the plurality of first protrusions protruding from the first main surface portion in the first direction and extending in a strip shape along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction,

[0014] The second supporting portion includes:

[0015] a second main surface portion located on the second side surface portion side of the battery cell in the first direction; and

[0016] a plurality of second protrusions, the plurality of second protrusions protruding from the second main surface portion toward the first direction,

[0017] The plurality of second protrusions extend in a strip shape so as not to overlap with the plurality of first protrusions when viewed from the first direction, or extend in a strip shape along a third direction different from the second direction. [2]

[0019] In the battery module described in [1], the second direction and the third direction are orthogonal to each other. [3]

[0021] The battery module according to [1] or [2] is further provided with a plurality of housings, each housing accommodating at least two of the plurality of cells, supporting the at least two cells in at least the first direction, and forming a unit including the at least two cells.

[0022] Each of the plurality of housings includes the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion. [4]

[0024] In the battery module described in [3], the shell has: a first wall portion, the first wall portion is located at a position other than the end portion of the shell in the first direction; a second wall portion, the second wall portion is located at the end portion of the shell in the first direction; and a third wall portion, the third wall portion connecting the first wall portion and the second wall portion in the first direction.

[0025] The first supporting portion is provided on the first wall portion, and the second supporting portion is provided on the second wall portion.

[0026] A cooling medium passage along the second direction is formed between the plurality of first protrusions.

[0027] A through hole is provided which penetrates the third wall portion and communicates with the cooling medium passage. [5]

[0029] In the battery module described in [4], the plurality of first protrusions protrude from the first main surface portion toward the first side surface portion.

[0030] The plurality of second protrusions protrude from the second main surface portion toward a side opposite to the second side surface portion. [6]

[0032] In the battery module described in [4] or [5], a cross-sectional area of the cooling medium passage when viewed from the second direction is larger than a cross-sectional area of a space between the plurality of second protrusions when viewed from the third direction.

[0033] The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a battery module according to Embodiment 1 of the present technology.

[0035] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0036] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a unit included in the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0037] Figure 4 Observed from the direction of arrow IV Figure 3 A three-dimensional diagram of the unit.

[0038] Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing the structure of a single cell according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0039] Figure 6 Observed from the direction of the arrow on line VI-VI Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a unit.

[0040] Figure 7 Observed from the direction of the arrow on line VII-VII Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a unit.

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0042] Figure 9 Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first protrusions and a plurality of second protrusions according to a comparative example.

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship among a plurality of first protrusions, a plurality of second protrusions, and an electrode body according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0044] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to Embodiment 2 of the present technology.

[0045] Figure 12 It is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to Embodiment 3 of the present technology.

[0046] Figure 13 Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to Embodiment 4 of the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology will be described. The same or corresponding parts will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

[0048] In the following embodiments, when numbers, amounts, etc. are mentioned, the scope of the present technology is not necessarily limited to these numbers, amounts, etc. unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, individual components are not necessarily essential to the present technology unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, the present technology is not limited to achieving all the effects described in the embodiments.

[0049] In this specification, the terms "comprise," "include," and "have" are open-ended. That is, if a certain structure is included, other structures other than that structure may be included, or other structures may not be included.

[0050] In addition, when this specification uses geometric terms and terms indicating positional and directional relationships, such as "parallel," "orthogonal," "inclined at 45 degrees," "coaxial," and "along," these terms allow for manufacturing errors and slight variations. When this specification uses terms such as "upper" and "lower" to indicate relative positional relationships, these terms are used to indicate relative positional relationships in a single state. These relative positional relationships can be reversed or rotated to any angle depending on the orientation of the various mechanisms (for example, by turning the entire mechanism upside down).

[0051] In this specification, "battery" is not limited to lithium-ion batteries, but may also include other batteries such as nickel-metal hydride batteries and sodium-ion batteries. In this specification, "electrode" may be a general term for positive electrodes and negative electrodes.

[0052] Furthermore, battery modules can be installed in hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV). However, the use of battery modules is not limited to in-vehicle use.

[0053] In the drawings, the direction in which the positive and negative terminals of the cells are arranged is designated as the X direction, the direction in which the cells are stacked is designated as the Y direction, and the direction in which the upper and lower surfaces of the housings constituting the cells face each other is designated as the Z direction. To facilitate understanding of the present technology, the dimensions of various components in the drawings are sometimes modified relative to their actual dimensions.

[0054] (Implementation Method 1)

[0055] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a battery module according to Embodiment 1 of the present technology. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0056] First, the overall structure of the battery module 1 is described. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology is equipped with a plurality of cells 10 , end plates 400 , restraint members 500 , a guide tube 600 , a wiring member 700 , and a connection terminal portion 800 .

[0057] The plurality of units 10 are arranged in parallel in the first direction (Y direction). According to this embodiment, six units 10 are arranged in parallel in the first direction (Y direction). The number of units 10 is not particularly limited, as long as it is two or more. For example, the number of units may be 18.

[0058] The plurality of units 10 are sandwiched in the first direction (Y direction) by the two end plates 400. The plurality of units 10 according to this embodiment are pressed by one end plate 400A and the other end plate 400B and are constrained between the two end plates 400A and 400B.

[0059] The end plates 400 are provided at both ends of the plurality of cells 10 in the first direction (Y direction). The end plates 400 are fixed to a base such as a housing housing the battery module 1. The end plates 400 are made of, for example, aluminum, aluminum alloy, iron, or iron alloy.

[0060] The restraining members 500 are provided at both ends of the multiple units 10 and the end plates 400 in the X direction. While a compressive force in the first direction (Y direction) is applied to the multiple units 10 and the end plates 400 arranged in parallel, the restraining members 500 are engaged with the end plates 400. The compressive force is then released, thereby applying a tensile force to the restraining members 500 connecting the two end plates 400. As a reaction to this force, the restraining members 500 push the two end plates 400 toward each other. As a result, the restraining members 500 restrain the multiple units 10 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0061] The restraint member 500 includes a plate-shaped portion 510, a first flange portion 520, and a second flange portion 530. The restraint member 500 is made of, for example, iron or an iron alloy.

[0062] The plate-like portion 510 is a member extending in the first direction (the Y direction). The plate-like portion 510 is provided with a plurality of openings 511. The plurality of openings 511 are spaced apart from one another in the first direction (the Y direction). The openings 511 are formed by through-holes that penetrate the plate-like portion 510 in the X direction.

[0063] The first flange portion 520 extends from the side surfaces of the plurality of cells 10 in the X direction and curves toward the upper surfaces of the plurality of cells 10. By providing the first flange portion 520, the rigidity of the relatively thin restraint member 500 can be ensured.

[0064] The second flange portions 530 are connected to both ends of the plate-shaped portion 510 in the first direction (the Y direction). The second flange portions 530 are fixed to the end plates 400. The second flange portions 530 are fixed to the end plates 400 using a known fixing method such as bolt fastening. Thus, the restraining member 500 connects the two end plates 400 to each other.

[0065] The conduit 600 is configured to allow gas to flow therein. Figure 1 As shown, the conduit 600 extends in the first direction (Y direction). The conduit 600 extends at a position overlapping with the wiring member 700 when viewed from the Z direction. The conduit 600 is arranged between the plurality of units 10 and the wiring member 700 in the Z direction.

[0066] The wiring member 700 is primarily provided for detecting the voltage of the battery cells 100, which will be described later. The wiring member 700 is positioned opposite the plurality of cells 10 in the Z direction. The wiring member 700 passes through the center of each of the plurality of cells 10 in the X direction and extends in the Y direction. The wiring member 700 electrically connects the plurality of cells 10. For example, the wiring member 700 is a flexible printed circuit board.

[0067] The connection terminal portions 800 are arranged on both sides of the plurality of cells 10 arranged side by side in the first direction (the Y direction). The connection terminal portions 800 are fixed to the end plate 400. The connection terminal portions 800 include a negative-side connection terminal portion 800A and a positive-side connection terminal portion 800B. The connection terminal portions 800 form an electrical connection path between the battery module 1 and a drive source, etc., located outside the battery module 1.

[0068] Next, the structure of the unit 10 will be described. Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a unit included in the battery module according to the first embodiment of the present technology. Figure 4 Observed from the direction of arrow IV Figure 3 A three-dimensional diagram of the unit. Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing the structure of a single cell according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0069] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, each of the plurality of units 10 includes a plurality of battery cells 100 , a housing 200 , and a bus bar 300 .

[0070] The unit 10 includes two or more cells 100. The unit 10 according to this embodiment includes two cells 100, which is an even number. Furthermore, the number of cells 100 provided in each of the multiple units 10 is not particularly limited, as long as it is two or more. Furthermore, the number of cells 100 provided in each of the multiple units 10 may also be an odd number. The total number of cells 100 in the battery module 1 is, for example, 12 or 36.

[0071] The plurality of cells 100 are arranged in a first direction (Y direction). Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the arrangement direction of the plurality of units 10 is the same as the arrangement direction of the plurality of battery cells 100 in each of the plurality of units 10 .

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, the battery cell 100 is, for example, a lithium-ion battery and has a prismatic shape.

[0073] The cell 100 according to this embodiment includes an electrode terminal 110 , a frame 120 , and a gas discharge valve 130 .

[0074] The electrode terminal 110 is formed on the frame body 120. The electrode terminal 110 includes a positive electrode terminal 111 and a negative electrode terminal 112 as two electrode terminals 110 arranged along the X direction.

[0075] The positive electrode terminal 111 and the negative electrode terminal 112 are provided to be separated from each other in the X direction. The positive electrode terminal 111 and the negative electrode terminal 112 are provided on both sides of the guide tube 600 and the wiring member 700 in the X direction, respectively.

[0076] The housing 120 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and constitutes the outer appearance of the cell 100. The housing 120 accommodates an electrode assembly 140 and an electrolyte solution, which will be described later.

[0077] The frame body 120 includes an upper surface portion 121 , a lower surface portion 122 , a first side surface portion 123 , a second side surface portion 124 , and a third side surface portion 125 .

[0078] The upper surface portion 121 is a plane perpendicular to the Z direction. The electrode terminal 110 is arranged on the upper surface portion 121. The upper surface portion 121 covers the upper wall portion 260 of the housing 200 described later. The lower surface portion 122 faces the upper surface portion 121 along the Z direction.

[0079] Each side surface of the first side surface portion 123 and the second side surface portion 124 is formed by a plane perpendicular to the Y direction. The first side surface portion 123 and the second side surface portion 124 are opposed to each other in the first direction (Y direction). Each side surface of the first side surface portion 123 and the second side surface portion 124 has the largest area among the multiple side surfaces of the frame body 120. Each side surface of the first side surface portion 123 and the second side surface portion 124 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the Y direction. Each side surface of the first side surface portion 123 and the second side surface portion 124 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the Y direction, with the X direction being the longitudinal direction and the Z direction being the lateral direction.

[0080] The cell 100 is provided with a pair of third side portions 125. The pair of third side portions 125 are arranged side by side in the X direction. Each of the pair of third side portions 125 connects the ends of the first side portion 123 and the second side portion 124. The pair of third side portions 125 are arranged in the X direction to face third walls 230 and 240 of the housing 200, which will be described later.

[0081] The plurality of cells 100 are stacked such that the first side surfaces 123 and the second side surfaces 124 of adjacent cells 100 in the Y direction face each other. Thus, the positive terminals 111 and the negative terminals 112 are alternately arranged in the Y direction of the stacked cells 100.

[0082] The gas discharge valve 130 is provided on the upper portion 121. When the internal pressure of the housing 120 becomes higher than a predetermined value due to the gas generated inside the housing 120, the gas discharge valve 130 discharges the gas to the outside of the housing 120. The gas from the gas discharge valve 130 is discharged to the outside of the housing 120. Figure 1The liquid flows through the conduit 600 in the battery module 1 and is discharged to the outside of the battery module 1 .

[0083] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the housing 200 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 200 houses at least two cells 100 among the plurality of cells 100. In this embodiment, the housing 200 houses two cells 100.

[0084] The housing 200 is formed of a resin such as polypropylene, for example. The housing 200 is formed by injection molding, for example. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the housing 200 is assembled into the battery module 1 , it is compressed in the first direction (Y direction) by the restraint member 500 .

[0085] The plurality of bus bars 300 are formed of a conductor and electrically connect the plurality of cells 100 to each other.

[0086] The plurality of bus bars 300 include a first bus bar 310, a second bus bar 320, and a third bus bar 330. The first bus bar 310 electrically connects the electrode terminals 110 of the cells 100 housed in one unit 10. The second bus bar 320 and the third bus bar 330 electrically connect the electrode terminals 110 of the cells 100 in one unit 10 to the electrode terminals 110 of the cells 100 in another adjacent unit 10.

[0087] Next, the detailed structure of the housing 200 will be described. Figure 6 Observed from the direction of the arrow on line VI-VI Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a unit. Figure 7 Observed from the direction of the arrow on line VII-VII Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a unit.

[0088] like Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the housing 200 is formed of a single member and includes a first wall 210 , a second wall 220 , a pair of third walls 230 and 240 , a fourth wall 250 , and an upper wall 260 .

[0089] The first wall 210 is located at a position other than the ends of the housing 200 in the first direction (the Y direction). The first wall 210 is located approximately in the center of the housing 200 in the first direction (the Y direction). The first wall 210 is located between the two cells 101 and 102, insulating the two cells 101 and 102 from each other. The first wall 210 is connected to the pair of third walls 230 and 240 and the upper wall 260.

[0090] The second wall portion 200 is located at an end portion of the housing 200 on one side in the first direction (Y direction).

[0091] The pair of third wall portions 230 and 240 are arranged in parallel in the X direction. Each of the pair of third wall portions 230 and 240 connects the second wall portion 220 and the fourth wall portion 250 .

[0092] One third wall portion 230 is adjacent to one restraining member 500. One third wall portion 230 connects the first wall portion 210 and the second wall portion 220 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0093] like Figure 3 and Figure 7 As shown, a first through-hole 231 is provided in one third wall portion 230. The first through-hole 231 penetrates the one third wall portion 230 and communicates with the cooling medium passage 201, which will be described later. The first through-hole 231 is provided in a portion that protrudes from the one third wall portion 230 toward the one restraining member 500. The portion where the first through-hole 231 is provided extends through the opening 511 into which the restraining member 500 is inserted.

[0094] The other third wall 240 faces the one third wall 230 with the plurality of cells 100 interposed therebetween in the X direction. The other third wall 240 connects the first wall 210 and the second wall 220 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0095] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, a second through-hole 241 is provided in the other third wall portion 240. The second through-hole 241 penetrates the other third wall portion 240 and communicates with the cooling medium passage 201, which will be described later. The second through-hole 241 is provided in a portion that protrudes from the other third wall portion 240 toward the other restraining member 500. The portion provided with the second through-hole 241 extends through the opening 511 into which the restraining member 500 is inserted.

[0096] The fourth wall 250 is arranged parallel to and opposite to the second wall 220 in the first direction (direction Y) with the first wall 210 interposed therebetween. The fourth wall 250 is located at the other end of the housing 200 in the first direction (direction Y).

[0097] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the upper wall portion 260 includes a first partitioning wall 261, a second partitioning wall 262, and a plurality of holes 263. The two first partitioning walls 261 are formed parallel to each other in the Y direction, extending in the center portion in the X direction. The second partitioning walls 262 are provided on either side of the first partitioning wall 261 in the X direction, defining the location for the bus bar 300. The plurality of holes 263 are provided so that the electrode terminal 110 and the gas discharge valve 130 are exposed from the upper wall portion 260. The plurality of holes 263 communicate with the gas discharge valve 130.

[0098] like Figure 6 As shown, the housing 200 does not have a bottom wall portion that faces the lower surface 122 of the cell 100. Therefore, the housing 200 can be placed from above the cell 100 to house the cell 100. With the housing 200 positioned with the upper wall 260 facing upward, the unit 10 can stand upright on its own.

[0099] Next, the structure of the case 200 supporting the cell 100 will be described. Figure 8 Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to Embodiment 1 of the present technology.

[0100] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the housing 200 supports the two battery cells 100 at least in the first direction (Y direction). The housing 200 supports the two battery cells 100 in the Y direction and the X direction.

[0101] The housing 200 can hold two cells 100 in the first direction (Y direction) without applying any load from other structural members in the first direction (Y direction). The housing 200 holds the cells 100 in the first direction (Y direction) using the first wall 210, the second wall 220, and the fourth wall 250.

[0102] The cell 101 on one side is sandwiched between the first wall 210 and the second wall 220. The cell 102 on the other side is sandwiched between the first wall 210 and the fourth wall 250. In the Y direction, the gap between the first wall 210 and the second wall 220, and the gap between the first wall 210 and the fourth wall 250, are the same as or narrower than the width of the cell 100.

[0103] Each of the multiple housings 200 includes a first support portion 211 and a second support portion 221. The first support portion 211 is provided on the first wall portion 210. The second support portion 221 is provided on the second wall portion 220. The first support portion 211 and the second support portion 221 overlap at least the cells 100 in the first direction (Y direction). The first support portion 211 and the second support portion 221 sandwich one of the cells 101 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0104] In addition, the first support portion may constitute a part of the first wall portion, or the first support portion may constitute the entire first wall portion. In addition, the second support portion may constitute a part of the second wall portion, or the second support portion may constitute the entire second wall portion.

[0105] The first support portion 211 includes a thin-walled portion 212 , a first main surface portion 213 , and a plurality of first protrusions 270 .

[0106] The thin portion 212 is a portion of the first wall portion 210 that is thinner in the Y direction than the other portions of the first wall portion 210. The thin portion 212 is provided to increase the cross-sectional area of a cooling medium passage 201 to be described later.

[0107] The first main surface portion 213 is located on the first side surface portion 123 side of one of the cells 101 in the first direction (Y direction). The first main surface portion 213 mainly constitutes the outer surface of the thin portion 212 in the first support portion 211 .

[0108] The plurality of first protrusions 270 protrude from the first main surface portion 213 in the first direction (direction Y). The plurality of first protrusions 270 protrude from the first main surface portion 213 toward the first side surface portion 123 .

[0109] The plurality of first protrusions 270 are arranged at intervals from each other in the Z direction. In this embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions 270 are composed of three first protrusions 271, 272, and 273. The plurality of first protrusions 270 is not limited to three.

[0110] The plurality of first protrusions 270 extend in a stripe shape along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction (the Y direction). In this embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions 270 extend in a stripe shape along the X direction, which is the second direction.

[0111] The second support portion 221 includes a second main surface portion 222 and a plurality of second protrusions 280 .

[0112] The second main surface portion 222 is located on the second side surface portion 124 side of one of the cells 101 in the first direction (Y direction).

[0113] A plurality of second protrusions 280 protrude from the second main surface portion 222 in the first direction (Y direction). The plurality of second protrusions 280 protrude from the second main surface portion 222 toward the side opposite the second side surface portion 124. In this embodiment, the plurality of second protrusions 280 are composed of three second protrusions 281, 282, and 283. The number of second protrusions 280 is not limited to three.

[0114] The plurality of second protrusions 280 extend in a strip shape along a third direction different from the second direction (X direction) when viewed from the first direction (Y direction). In this embodiment, the plurality of second protrusions 280 extend in a strip shape along the third direction, which is the Z direction.

[0115] The second direction and the third direction are orthogonal to each other. In this embodiment, since the second direction is the X direction and the third direction is the Z direction, the second direction and the third direction are orthogonal to each other.

[0116] A cooling medium passage 201 is formed between the plurality of first protrusions 270 along the second direction (X direction). This allows cooling air to be introduced through the first through-holes 231 or the second through-holes 241 and flow through the cooling medium passage 201, thereby cooling the cells 100 housed in the housing 200.

[0117] Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the cross-sectional area S1 of cooling medium passage 201 when viewed from the second direction (X direction) is larger than the cross-sectional area S2 of the space between the plurality of second protrusions 280 when viewed from the third direction (Z direction). Consequently, a larger amount of cooling medium can be introduced into cooling medium passage 201 compared to the space between the plurality of second protrusions 280.

[0118] The width W1 of each of the plurality of first protrusions 270 in the third direction (Z direction) when viewed from the second direction (X direction) is narrower than the width W2 of each of the plurality of second protrusions 280 in the second direction (X direction) when viewed from the third direction (Z direction). This makes it easier to ensure that the cross-sectional area S1 of the cooling medium passage 201 is larger than the cross-sectional area S2 of the space between the plurality of second protrusions 280.

[0119] As described above, the plurality of first protrusions 270 function as a load path for transmitting a pressing force to the cell 100 when the cell 100 is supported by the housing 200, and also function as a cooling medium passage 201 for cooling the cell 100. The plurality of second protrusions 280 function as a load path for transmitting a pressing force to the cell 100 when the cell 100 is supported by the housing 200.

[0120] Similar to the first wall 210 and the second wall 220 that sandwich the single cell 101 , a plurality of protrusions are provided on the first wall 210 and the fourth wall 250 that sandwich the other single cell 102 .

[0121] Here, a battery module according to a comparative example is described. Since the structure of the plurality of first protrusions in the first supporting portion and the plurality of second protrusions in the second supporting portion of the battery module according to the comparative example differs from that of the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology, the same structure as that of the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology will not be repeatedly described.

[0122] Figure 9 Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to a comparative example. Figure 9 As shown, a battery module 9 according to a comparative example includes a single cell 900 and a housing. The housing includes a first support portion and a second support portion. A plurality of first protrusions 970 protrude from a first main surface portion of the first support portion. A plurality of second protrusions 980 protrude from a second main surface portion of the second support portion.

[0123] The plurality of first protrusions 970 extend in a stripe shape along the second direction (X direction). Similar to the plurality of first protrusions 970 , the plurality of second protrusions 980 extend in a stripe shape along the second direction (X direction).

[0124] The plurality of first protrusions 970 and the plurality of second protrusions 980 are arranged so as to overlap when viewed from the first direction (Y direction). The cell 900 is pressed from both sides of the overlapping locations of the plurality of first protrusions 970 and the plurality of second protrusions 980 in the first direction (Y direction). In a cross section (XY plane) along the first direction (Y direction), the pressing force exerted by the first and second supporting parts on both sides of the cell 900 compresses the cell 900, narrowing the electrolyte flow path within the cell 900.

[0125] In the region where the plurality of first protrusions 970 and the plurality of second protrusions 980 do not overlap in the first direction (Y direction), the electrolyte contained in the cell 900 according to the comparative example moves in the direction along the X direction (DR91 direction). However, in the direction along the Z direction (DR92 direction), the electrolyte flow path becomes narrower due to the overlap of the plurality of first protrusions 970 and the plurality of second protrusions 980 in the first direction (Y direction), making it difficult for the electrolyte to move.

[0126] On the other hand, Figure 8As shown, in the cell 100 according to Embodiment 1, the area where the plurality of first protrusions 270 and the plurality of second protrusions 280 overlap in the first direction (Y direction) is reduced compared to the cell 900 according to the comparative example. Consequently, in a cross-section (XY plane) along the first direction (Y direction), the area where the pressing force of the first supporting parts 211 and the second supporting parts 221 is applied from both sides of the cell 100 is reduced. This disperses the pressing force on the cell 100, reducing the area where the electrolyte flow path within the cell 100 is narrowed when the cell 100 is compressed. As a result, the area within the cell 100 where the electrolyte is difficult to move can be reduced.

[0127] Since the flow path of the electrolyte can be ensured, the electrolyte contained in the cell 100 according to the first embodiment can easily move in the direction along the X direction (DR11 direction) and the direction along the Z direction (DR12 direction) in the area where the plurality of first protrusions 270 and the plurality of second protrusions 280 do not overlap in the first direction (Y direction).

[0128] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship among a plurality of first protrusions, a plurality of second protrusions, and an electrode body according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0129] like Figure 10 As shown, an electrode body 140 is disposed within the cell 100. Electrode body 140 is a wound electrode body. Electrode body 140 is wound around the X-direction. A curved portion 141 is formed at the wound end of electrode body 140. Curved portion 141 is curved with imaginary center C as its base point.

[0130] The plurality of first protrusions 270 and the plurality of second protrusions 280 are arranged in positions that do not overlap with the curved portion 141 of the electrode body 140 in the first direction (Y direction). The plurality of first protrusions 270 and the plurality of second protrusions 280 are arranged within the range of the length L1 connecting the imaginary centers C of the curved portion 141 at both ends in the Z direction. This prevents the application of the pressing force generated by the support of the case 200 to the curved portion 141 of the electrode body 140. Since the pressing force of the case 200 can be applied to the flat portion of the electrode body 140, the electrode body 140 can be securely restrained, and a structure that facilitates the flow of electrolyte is formed.

[0131] In the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology, a first support portion 211, which supports one surface (first side portion 123) of the cell 100, is provided with a plurality of first, strip-shaped protrusions 270 extending in a second direction (X-direction) perpendicular to the stacking direction of the cell 100. Furthermore, a second support portion 221, which supports the other surface (second side portion 124) of the cell 100, is provided with a plurality of second, strip-shaped protrusions 280 extending in a third direction (Z-direction) different from the second direction. This reduces the area where the plurality of first and second protrusions 270 and 280 overlap and sandwich the cell 100, as viewed in the stacking direction of the cell 100, compared to a case where the first and second protrusions extend in the same direction and overlap in the stacking direction of the cell 100. This disperses the pressing force that sandwiches the cell 100, ensuring a smooth flow path for the electrolyte within the cell 100. As a result, it is possible to provide a battery module 1 in which the electrolyte solution easily flows inside the unit cell 100 and which has high reliability.

[0132] In the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology, the second direction (X direction) and the third direction (Z direction) are orthogonal to each other, so that the single cell 100 can be evenly supported by the first support portion 211 and the second support portion 221, and the electrolyte can easily move to all corners of the single cell 100.

[0133] In the battery module 1 according to embodiment 1 of the present technology, each of the multiple shells 200 of the unit 10 including the single battery 100 has a first support portion 211 and a second support portion 221, so that the first support portion 211 and the second support portion 221 can be integrally formed, thereby reducing the number of components of the battery module 1.

[0134] In the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology, a cooling medium passage 201 is formed along the second direction (X direction) between the plurality of first protrusions 270, and through holes (first through holes 231 and second through holes 241) are provided that communicate with the cooling medium passage 201, thereby enabling efficient cooling of the single cells 100.

[0135] In the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology, the plurality of first protrusions 270 protrude from the first main surface portion 213 toward the first side surface portion 123, and the plurality of second protrusions 280 protrude from the second main surface portion 222 toward the side opposite to the second side surface portion 124. This allows the plurality of second protrusions 280 to be arranged on the outer surface of the housing 200. When the housing 200 is integrally molded from resin, the various structures of the housing 200 constitute the resin-molded portion. When the housing 200 is integrally molded from resin, the resin molding mold for forming the plurality of second protrusions 280 is easily arranged during manufacturing, and therefore, the plurality of second protrusions 280 constituting a portion of the resin-molded portion can be easily formed.

[0136] In the battery module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology, the cross-sectional area S1 of the cooling medium passage 201 when viewed from the second direction (X direction) is larger than the cross-sectional area S2 of the space between the plurality of second protrusions 280 when viewed from the third direction (Z direction). This allows a high volume of cooling air to flow through the cooling medium passage 201. Therefore, the single cell 100 can be supported by the first support portion 211 and the second support portion 221, and the single cell 100 can be cooled efficiently.

[0137] Next, battery modules according to embodiments 2 to 4 of the present technology will be described. Since the battery modules according to embodiments 2 to 4 of the present technology differ from the battery module 1 according to embodiment 1 of the present technology in terms of the structure of the multiple first protrusions in the first support portion and the multiple second protrusions in the second support portion, the same structure as that of the battery module 1 according to embodiment 1 of the present technology will not be described again.

[0138] (Implementation Method 2)

[0139] Figure 11 It is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to Embodiment 2 of the present technology.

[0140] like Figure 11 As shown, the battery module 1A of this embodiment includes a single cell 100, a first support portion, and a second support portion. A plurality of first protrusions 270A protrude from a first main surface portion of the first support portion. A plurality of second protrusions 280A protrude from a second main surface portion of the second support portion.

[0141] The plurality of first protrusions 270A extend in a strip shape along the second direction (X direction). The plurality of second protrusions 280A extend in a strip shape so as not to overlap with the plurality of first protrusions 270A when viewed from the first direction (Y direction). The plurality of second protrusions 280A extend in a strip shape in the second direction (X direction) so as not to overlap with the plurality of first protrusions 270A when viewed from the first direction (Y direction).

[0142] In the cell 100 according to this embodiment, in a cross-section (XY plane) along the first direction (Y direction), there is no region where the first and second supporting parts exert a pressing force from both sides of the cell 100. This ensures a secure flow path for the electrolyte within the cell 100. In regions where the plurality of first protrusions 270 and the plurality of second protrusions 280 do not overlap in the first direction (Y direction), the electrolyte readily moves in the X direction (DR21 direction) and the Z direction (DR22 direction).

[0143] In the battery module 1A according to the second embodiment of the present technology, a first support portion, which supports one surface (first side surface) of the cell 100, is provided with a plurality of first strip-shaped protrusions 270A extending in a second direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the cell 100. A second support portion, which supports the other surface (second side surface) of the cell 100, is provided with a plurality of second strip-shaped protrusions 280A, which do not overlap with the plurality of first protrusions 270A when viewed from the first direction. This disperses the pressing force exerted by clamping the cell 100, ensuring a smooth flow path for the electrolyte within the cell 100. As a result, a highly reliable battery module 1A can be provided, in which the electrolyte easily flows within the cell 100.

[0144] In the battery module 1A according to the second embodiment of the present technology, since the single cell 100 is pushed in the Y direction due to displacement when viewed along the Z direction, when the single cell 100 is accommodated and supported in the housing, the single cell 100 can be reliably positioned relative to the housing in the Z direction.

[0145] (Implementation Method 3)

[0146] Figure 12 It is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to Embodiment 3 of the present technology.

[0147] like Figure 12 As shown, the battery module 1B of this embodiment includes a single cell 100, a first support portion, and a second support portion. A plurality of first protrusions 270B protrude from the first main surface portion of the first support portion. A plurality of second protrusions 280B protrude from the second main surface portion of the second support portion. The plurality of second protrusions 280B extend obliquely, non-orthogonally, with respect to the X-direction.

[0148] In the region where the first convex portions 270B and the second convex portions 280B do not overlap in the first direction (Y direction), the electrolyte easily moves in a direction along the X direction (DR31 direction) and a direction inclined relative to the X direction (DR32 direction).

[0149] In the battery module 1B according to the third embodiment of the present technology, by arranging the plurality of second protrusions 280B in arbitrary oblique directions with respect to the X direction, the electrolyte can be easily moved to a desired position.

[0150] (Implementation Method 4)

[0151] Figure 13 Schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between a plurality of first convex portions and a plurality of second convex portions according to Embodiment 4 of the present technology.

[0152] like Figure 13 As shown, the battery module 1C of this embodiment includes a single cell 100, a first support portion, and a second support portion. Multiple first protrusions 270C protrude from the first main surface portion of the first support portion. Multiple second protrusions 280C protrude from the second main surface portion of the second support portion. The multiple second protrusions 280C are not perpendicular to the X-direction, and three second protrusions 280C on each side extend obliquely in different directions. The multiple second protrusions 280C are arranged with gaps in the center of the single cell 100 in the X-direction.

[0153] In a region where the first convex portions 270C and the second convex portions 280C do not overlap in the first direction (Y direction), the electrolyte easily moves in a direction along the X direction (DR41 direction) and a direction inclined relative to the X direction (DR42 direction).

[0154] In the battery module 1C according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology, since excessive pressure is not applied to the central portion of the electrode body 140 where expansion is likely, the electrolyte can be easily moved inside the cell 100 .

[0155] Furthermore, the first protrusion does not necessarily need to extend in the X direction, but may extend in any direction of the XZ plane. Furthermore, the electrode assembly disposed in the cell is not limited to a wound electrode assembly, but may also be a stacked electrode assembly.

[0156] Furthermore, when at least one of the first and second protrusions is present, the pushing force applied from the housing to the cell tends to be concentrated. Furthermore, even if a single protrusion is extended in a different direction in the XZ plane, the area where the first and second protrusions overlap increases. Therefore, in this embodiment, compared to a case where at least one of the first and second protrusions is present, multiple first and second protrusions are provided. This reduces the area where the first and second protrusions overlap. As a result, the electrolyte in the cell 100 is more easily transferred.

[0157] In addition, by extending the plurality of second protrusions in a strip shape without overlapping the plurality of first protrusions when viewed from the first direction, and by extending the plurality of second protrusions in a strip shape along a third direction different from the second direction, the function of dispersing the pushing force on the single cell and facilitating the movement of the electrolyte inside the single cell is achieved.

[0158] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, it should be considered that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all aspects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, and is intended to include all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

Claims

1. A battery module, wherein: Equipped with: a plurality of battery cells, the plurality of battery cells being arranged in a first direction and each having a prismatic shape; as well as a first supporting portion and a second supporting portion, wherein the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion clamp one of the plurality of battery cells in the first direction; The battery cell includes a first side surface portion and a second side surface portion that are opposite to each other in the first direction. The first supporting portion includes: a first main surface portion located on the first side surface portion side of the battery cell in the first direction; and a plurality of first protrusions, the plurality of first protrusions protruding from the first main surface portion in the first direction and extending in a strip shape along a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, The second supporting portion includes: a second main surface portion located on the second side surface portion side of the battery cell in the first direction; and a plurality of second protrusions, the plurality of second protrusions protruding from the second main surface portion toward the first direction, The plurality of second protrusions extend in a strip shape so as not to overlap with the plurality of first protrusions when viewed from the first direction, or extend in a strip shape along a third direction different from the second direction.

2. The battery module according to claim 1, wherein: The second direction and the third direction are orthogonal to each other.

3. The battery module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: A plurality of housings are further provided, each housing at least two of the plurality of cells, supporting the at least two cells in at least the first direction, and forming a unit including the at least two cells. Each of the plurality of housings includes the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

4. The battery module according to claim 3, wherein: The housing comprises: a first wall portion, the first wall portion being located at a position other than an end portion of the housing in the first direction; and a second wall portion, the second wall portion being located at an end portion of the housing in the first direction. and a third wall portion connecting the first wall portion and the second wall portion in the first direction, The first supporting portion is provided on the first wall portion, and the second supporting portion is provided on the second wall portion. A cooling medium passage along the second direction is formed between the plurality of first protrusions. A through hole is provided which penetrates the third wall portion and communicates with the cooling medium passage.

5. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein: The plurality of first protrusions protrude from the first main surface portion toward the first side surface portion, The plurality of second protrusions protrude from the second main surface portion toward a side opposite to the second side surface portion.

6. The battery module according to claim 4, wherein: A cross-sectional area of the cooling medium passage when viewed from the second direction is larger than a cross-sectional area of a space between the plurality of second protrusions when viewed from the third direction.

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